This content has been reviewed and written by Prakriti Anand.
Prakriti is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Ancient Indian History from the University of Delhi. Her expertise in Indian culture ensures historical accuracy, cultural authenticity, and ethical representation in every piece she contributes.
The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, UNESCO’s global decision-making body for cultural traditions, officially added Deepavali to its Representative List. As global news and Indian leaders, including PM Modi, celebrate this declaration, let us look at what it means to be included in UNESCO’s list of intangible heritage.
What makes this legacy truly exceptional its architectural grandeur, and its human transmission. Generation after generation of artisans have preserved complex knowledge of stone behavior, iconographic law, tool discipline, and symbolic expression often without written manuals, relying instead on oral teaching and embodied practice. To understand Odisha stone carving is to understand how art, religion, geology, and human resilience can merge into a single enduring tradition one that continues to shape the spiritual and artistic landscape of India even in the present century. Discover our curated guides on Konark, Bhubaneswar’s temple architecture, and authentic GI-certified Odisha handicrafts to experience this living tradition beyond the written word.
Across centuries, civilizations, and changing fashions, pendants have never lost their relevance. Their endurance comes from their rare ability to unite art, belief, memory, craftsmanship, and personal identity in a single object worn close to the heart. From ancient amulets and royal insignia to modern minimalist designs and gemstone statements, the pendant continuously adapts without losing its symbolic core. From ancient talismans to modern jewelry, uncover the cultural meaning, gemstone power, and enduring beauty of pendants across the world.
A prabhavali is the ornamental halo arch that encircles deities, symbolising light and cosmic energy. Emerging from early siraschakra halos, it became a key feature of temple art and bronze sculpture. The prabhavali frames the deity, amplifies its aura, supports ritual lighting, and shapes spiritual focus for devotees. Used in temples and homes, it is crafted in metal or wood to complement the murti.
Walk into an Indian temple and you’ll often see a fierce face carved above the doorway bulging eyes, curling fangs, and a hungry, wide-open mouth. This is the Kirtimukha, the “Face of Glory,” a guardian born from folklore, perfected in temple architecture, and revered for its power to protect sacred spaces. Though striking and intimidating, its message is deeply spiritual: it devours negativity before it crosses the threshold. Understanding the Kirtimukha means exploring its origin, symbolism, and the role it plays in safeguarding places of worship and homes alike.
Shiva as the Peacemaker reveals how the God of Destruction becomes the restorer of balance in Hindu mythology. When divine fury threatens creation as in the tales of Narasimha’s rage and Kali’s dance Shiva intervenes with calm strength. Through surrender or stillness, he transforms chaos into peace, embodying the eternal rhythm between destruction and renewal. From calming Narasimha’s fury to halting Kali’s cosmic dance, discover how Shiva transforms chaos into balance revealing the peace within destruction.
Standing 39 meters tall, the Khlong Khuean Ganesha is made of 854 bronze pieces- a staggering feat that is rooted in the ritual history of bronze in Hindu tradition, combining it with the innovation of modern times.
In his four hands, Ganesha holds jackfruit, sugarcane, banana, and mango- symbols of prosperity, sweetness, nourishment, and wisdom. These fruits are attributes of Ganesha described in the Ganesha and Mudgal Purana, enhancing the symbolic beauty of the mighty sculpture.
How did Ganesha arrive in Thailand? Through centuries of cultural exchange. Indian traders, monks, and artists carried his worship across Southeast Asia, where he was embraced as Phra Phikanet, the deity of success. Today, this colossal bronze form reaffirms Thailand’s deep-rooted devotion to him, while standing as a powerful marker of Hinduism’s history beyond India.
Naga Panchami is an Indian festival celebrated on the Panchami or fifth day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Saavan, which falls in July and August. Often seen as a folk festival that venerates serpents, Nag Panchami is one of the sacred days that is celebrated across religions and sects in India: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and tribal traditions, all have their own legends and rituals related to this day.
This unique festival that welcomes, feeds, and thanks snakes for being protectors of agriculture and guardians of people is connected to the reverence of snakes as symbols of power, fertility, death, regeneration, and inner wisdom.
Jagannath Puri, revered as the Shankha Kshetra, is more than a temple town — it’s believed to be Lord Vishnu’s eternal abode on earth. From the timeless verses of Skanda Purana to hidden tirthas, Puri offers seekers a direct path to moksha (liberation). This guide uncovers its sacred geography, divine protectors, and lesser-known temples, inviting every pilgrim to witness why this holy city is cherished as Earth’s Vaikuntha where devotion, legends, and divine presence never fade.
Did you know Buddhist monks practiced medicine in monasteries centuries ago? They believed the body was a sacred vessel—not something to be denied, but supported. One tale tells of Buddha reincarnating as a fish during a famine. He offered himself as food to starving monks so they could recover and meditate again. This isn't just myth—it's a metaphor for the healing power of selfless compassion. The Medicine Buddha’s teachings continue to guide those who serve others today. Buddhist stories remind us: the path to awakening begins with compassion—toward yourself and others. #BuddhistStories #SpiritualHealing #MedicineBuddha
The name “Pashupati” or Lord of Animals was made popular by the excavations of one of the oldest civilisations of the world- Harappa. Surrounded by animals, the yogi with a unique headgear was identified as their Pati (Lord). But in the Vedas, Pashupati is not just looking after the animals but all living beings. He is Rudra, the son of Prajapati, who was crowned Pashupati or Pashuman to reign over all the souls, regulate their actions, and guide them toward a righteous life.
The earliest idea of Param Brahman as an invisible and all-encompassing being matches the person of Vaayu- the omnipresent life force that is at the core of all cosmic activities. Beyond Indian traditions, Vaayu is worshipped in Zoroastrianism as Vaayu-Vata (similar to the Sanskrit terms used for the wind god), who is a dual-natured god- Vaayu (wind) and Vata (atmosphere). The Avestan God is benevolent and malevolent and is feared and worshipped based on where one encounters him. In Nepal, where Vajrayana Buddhism is one of the popular religious traditions, Vaayu is a Dharmapala, a guardian god, who, much like his presence as a Dikapala in India, protects all beings.
The most famous tale of goddess Sita’s birth is known to many- it mentions a draught in the kingdom of Raja Janak. He was asked by his teachers to perform a sacrificial ritual (yagya), one of whose rituals was ploughing the farming land. During the ritual, the plough was stuck to something, and when pulled at, a pot was revealed. Inside that ghata (earthen pot, which is an ancient symbol of fertility and Lakshmi herself) was a beautiful girl child. Sita- named after the furrow from which she emerged, the girl was Ayonija (not born from the yoni) and thus, from the beginning, the kingdom of Janaka and his family knew that she was no ordinary girl. While the most popular story of Sita’s birth is her emergence from the earth, in the Ramopakhyana (description of Rama) in the Mahabharata and the Paumachariya of Vimal Suri, the Jain Ramayana, Sita is described as being born to Janaka.
Hanuman, the deity who is a devotee first, is synonymous with Bhakti- an affection towards one’s God that goes beyond what can be defined by “devotion”. The legends of his power and wisdom bring to life the episodes of Ramayana, making him one of the most prominent characters of the epic. But his presence in the other epic- Mahabharata- is often overlooked. Always present in the images of the Kurukshetra, on the flag of Arjun’s chariot, Hanuman (one of the Chiranjeevi immortals) lived to see and participate in the famous war.
Vishnu has Sudarshan, Shiva his Trishula, and goddess Durga her mighty ten weapons. But there is one Hindu god who chose something different- a plough or Hala. The elder brother of Sri Krishna, one of the Yadu-Kula warriors and a deity associated with farming, fertility, and power, Balaram while accompanying Krishna from the beginning of his Lilas, is still a lesser-known figure in Hindu traditions. Here, we look at the stories of Balaram from Puranas and Mahabharata, where he appears as an incarnation of Adi Shesha, ansha avatar or partial incarnation of Vishnu, or in some sources such as the Saura Purana (a Upapurana), one of the Dashavatara or ten incarnations of Vishnu-Narayana.
The many legends of Mariamman still reside in her rituals and temples and come alive during her festivals, when the goddess meets her devotees who visit her from all over the world. For the devotees, the question of whether Mariamman is Parvati, Durga, or Kali is not as relevant as the fact that she is their Amman, mother, who will always answer their call. The worship of goddess Mariamman is characterized by local rituals- some that require immense dedication such as fire walking while others simple, more personal like offering her homemade food and praying to her daily for blessings or special boons. According to some beliefs, Mariamman is an aspect of the goddess Parvati. The connection between Mariamman and Parvati is most strongly seen in the Patala Ponni Amman Temple at Chennai, where the goddess Ponni is worshipped as an aspect of Parvati, and also as a grama devata, with Shiva as her consort.
Wooden craftsmanship may not live for centuries like metal, but it carries a subtle charm that easily blends into both traditional and contemporary spaces. Every artistic piece of wooden craft discussed here is a result of skills and labor, with artisans dedicating months and sometimes years, learning from their masters how to perfect intricate carvings, ensuring that every work of Indian woodcraft tells its own unique story. The warmth and elegance of wooden decor bring a sense of refinement to any home, adding character without overwhelming the space. If you have heirloom furniture pieces, hold on to them and put them to good use. Wood carving is a common but an elegant art in all parts of India. Each region in India has its own style of structures and carving styles.
Andhakasura was born from the union of Parvati’s sweat and Shiva’s potent heat, in a moment when the great goddesses covered his eyes with her hands playfully, emerging out of the darkness that spread when Shiva’s eyes were closed. Andhaka, due to his blindness and dark colored form, was given to the demon Hiranyaksha, the brother of Hiranyakashyapu, as his son. Andhaka, despite his immense power and boons, born from the divine Shiva and Parvati, was blinded by his ego and lust, leading him to challenge the very forces that created him. However, Shiva’s divine justice not only punished him but also gave him a chance for spiritual transformation, showing that even the gravest sinners can attain grace through sincere penance and devotion.
Ratnagiri established itself as a place of the union of philosophy and power since the time of the Guptas, especially under Narasinghagupta Baladitya. He was followed by the Bhaumakaras from the 7th to 10th century CE, who patronized Ratnagiri which simultaneously developed as a key point in Southeast Asian trade as well as a place of intriguing local and trans-regional cultural exchanges.
Recently, interest in Odisha’s Buddhist heritage has been fueled by some intriguing discoveries, reaffirming the region’s historical significance as a major center of Buddhist learning and art. The newest excavations at Ratnagiri have revealed a 1.4-meter Buddha head, a monolithic elephant whose naturalism reminds one of the Dhauli rock-cut elephant, intricately carved votive stupas, inscribed stone tablets, and other priceless relics, shedding new light on the grandeur of this ancient Mahavihara complex. These findings, dating back to the 5th–13th centuries CE, provide fresh insights into the evolution of Buddhist thought, artistic expression, and the dynamic spiritual exchanges whose impact goes beyond the borders of modern-day India.
After sunrise, the devotee should perform worship of Shiva with various articles and rituals as mentioned in the Shastras. They should get their Abhisheka (consecration) done by Brahmanas and offer them food and Dakshina as vowed during the Puja. Then, with flowers in hands, one should bow in front of Shiva and say- “O benevolent one, I am yours, my Praana (life) and Chitta (consciousness) are yours, do with me as you please”. “O Bhutanatha, I performed your worship according to my knowledge (or lack thereof), so with your kindness, accept it and be pleased with me”. “Be pleased with the fruit of this Upavasa. Bless my kin so that they eternally worship you and do not let me take birth in a kin where you are not worshipped.”
Goddess Padmavati, also known as Alamelu Mangai, is an incarnation of Lakshmi and the consort of Lord Venkateswara (Tirupati Balaji). She represents wealth, prosperity, and devotion. This blog explores her legends, marriage, temples, iconography, and significance in Vaishnavism, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, along with some lesser-known legends of Maa Padmavati.
In Hindu tradition, Stotram or stotra is a stuti or prayer or a poetic verse about the powers and benevolence of a deity. Stotram is recited by the devotee regularly or on special occasions to gain blessings and pay respect to the god or goddess who is addressed in the Stotra. Among the many powerful Stotram that are a part of traditional Hindu rituals, is the Rama Raksha Stotram- the verses that symbolize the shield offered by Sri Rama against all negative and evil forces, to whoever sings this emotive hymn of Rama.
According to popular belief, a demon named Amruva was threatening the people of Saurashtra. Goddess Uma appeared to protect them from the menaces. Seeing her, the demon ran and hid in the skin of a dead cow, which is considered impure. Goddess Uma could not touch the skin and in anger, started rubbing her hands, which caused some “mel” or dirt to fall from her hands. The particles from the goddess’s body took the form of a young girl, who was named Meldi (born from dirt) who effortlessly killed the demon.
When the gods and demons began Samdura-Manthan, they needed someone to carry the weight of the mighty Mount Mandara. Someone who was stable but not feeble, someone who could be trusted with carrying the weight of universal balance. All eyes were on Vishnu, the Paalankarta (preserver), who transformed himself into a gigantic turtle and thus began the churning of the cosmic ocean.
Matsya avatar, the first incarnation among the Dashavatara (10 forms) of Vishnu, is a rarely depicted aspect of the Hindu preserver god. Revered in the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, and epics, the legend of Matsya avatar is the story of Vishnu coming to the aid of the residents of earth, for the first time. Associated with the cosmic narrative of Pralaya or deluge, the Matsya avatar is a lesser-known form of Vishnu, rooted in the ancient traditions of India. Let us learn about the history, iconography, stories, and temples of Matsyavataram, and understand why Vishnu took the form of a fish.
The story begins in the time of the gods when the Samudra-Manthan was taking place. The “Amrita Kumbha” or pot of nectar that emerged from the churning of the ocean, is said to be in the hands of Indra, Vishnu as Mohini, or Garuda (as per different sources) when a few drops trickled on the earth, marking the 4 spots where Kumbha Mela takes place.
According to some traditions, Indra’s son Jayant is believed to have transported Amrita to heaven, a journey that took him 12 days, which in human time is equal to 12 years, establishing the tradition of Kumbha Mela.
Attack on sites of religious and political importance and looting of sculptures and artifacts as an expression of victory and a way of adding insult to injury has been a war tactic since pre-modern times. The infamous plundering of Somnath Temple, during which many of its treasures and artifacts were stolen by Mahmud Ghazni, is one of the many events in history where the act of taking away art was a way of marking one’s victory and shaming the defeated dynasties. The site of Somnath has finally regained its glory, with kings in the medieval period and prominent devotees, temple trust, and ASI devoting resources to its preservation.
The Puranas narrate the story of Narakasura, beginning with the abduction of the Earth goddess, Bhudevi by the demon Hiranyaksha. To protect Bhudevi, Sri Vishnu takes the incarnation of Varaha, one of the Dashavatars, and plunges into the depths of the great ocean. The boar-faced god brings Bhudevi to the surface, raising her on his tusks, a divine vision for the gods and humans who rejoice.
During this rescue, a few drops of Varaha’s sweat fall on Earth (some sources tell that it was the piercing of Varaha’s tusk into the earth), as a result of which, Bhudevi bore Varaha’s son, named Bhaumasura (Bhauma- belonging to Bumi, a title of Mangala Graha, who is also the son of the earth goddess).
A cluster of seven stars forming a part of the glowing Ursa Major constellation in the sky, are given the revered status of “Saptarishi” (sapta-seven, rishi-sages), in Hindu culture, astronomy, and literature. Described in ancient Hindu books as divine beings who possessed the wisdom of the Universe, Saptarishis are believed to have understood the Param Brahman (supreme reality). Forming the Saptarishi Mandala or collection of seven sages in the night sky, Saptarishis have been mentioned in the Vedic sources, from where they went on to become the eternal residents of the horizon.
This Diwali, elevate your Pooja Ghar with essential ritual items that invite prosperity, wisdom, and spiritual energy. From Lakshmi-Ganesha idols and diyas to Ashtalakshmi Kalash, Sri Yantra, 108 coins, and Abhisheka Patra, each item serves a sacred purpose in festive worship. Handcrafted by skilled artisans using pure metals and traditional techniques, these items ensure ritual purity and aesthetic beauty. Perfect for Diwali Pooja, they simplify worship and enhance the sanctity of your home altar.
Who is Maa Durga? Revered as the supreme mother and cosmic warrior, Durga embodies the divine feminine in countless forms across India and the world. During Navaratri, devotees celebrate her power, protection, and grace, honoring regional, folk, and Tantric manifestations that fight evil and nurture life. From Mahishasuramardini to Mariamman, each form tells a unique story of Shakti, the universal energy. Mariamman, and explore their legends, worship, and cultural significance across India and beyond.
Many years ago, a man from Greece came to the ancient city of Pataliputra. He was sent by the court of Greece as an ambassador to India. Like any foreigner on a visit, he wrote about his time in the grand capital city of Magadha, mentioning, among other things, the many imposing gateways that protected the city from every direction. Made with wood and metal, the doors of Pataliputra attracted the attention of Megashtenese, and rightfully so.
Doors are the first thing that we see when we enter a place and the last thing that meets the eye upon leaving the space. Acting as a connecting element and a protective shield in buildings, doors have always been an important part of Indian sacred architecture, viewed beyond their utilitarian value. Let us look at the history of doors in India and how they went on to become a part of modern decor.
Named after the city of their origin, Mysore paintings developed from the earlier Vijaynagar murals and art, painted on the walls of the grand temples of the royal city. In the 17th, 18th, and later centuries, inspired by the frescos of sanctums like Hampi’s Virupaksha Mandir, these paintings grew into a distinctive art form.
The Chitrakara or painters, engaged in the artworks, were initially nurtured by the Vijayanagara kingdom, but after its fall, they had to scatter and find patrons in neighboring regions. Not just kings, but elites, ministers, and high-ranking officials of the states came forward to patronize the artists, preserving the painting style further.
On the banks of the holy Bagamati river, in the lap of Himalaya, lies the land of Shiva, where souls find Moksha and devotees find a connection with their Mahadeva. Pashupatinath Temple of Nepal, dedicated to Shiva’s form of the Lord of Pashu (soul) is a powerful and unparalleled Hindu temple. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1979, and rightfully so. A center of pilgrimage for not just Hindus but Buddhists, Jaina, and Sikhs from all over the world, the Pashupatinath Temple is as old as time.
A daughter of the Devabhasha (language of the Gods) Sanskrit, Hindi in the modern world is the representative of India’s composite and rich culture. A medium of expression for the common people and some of the greatest poets of all times, Hindi with its ever-growing vocabulary is a language for everyone, every mood, and every genre.
This balance of grandeur and simplicity of Hindi is best reflected in the literature- poems, stories, and other written material, by writers belonging to different periods and regions. Let us celebrate this Hindi Diwas with a list of 10 books in Hindi that have been loved by readers and critics, making them the recipient of the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in Hindi.
Death is the greatest equalizer. Poor or rich, man or woman, higher or lower castes, it sees no difference, it meets everyone with the same attitude. Thus it is no wonder that the God of Death in India, Yama, is also the Lord of Justice and Dharmaraja, the protector of order. Known as Kala, Mrityu, Antaka, Vaivasvata, Sarvapranahara (taker of everyone’s life), Yama is a name that causes shudders, intrigue, and reverence in the hearts of humans. Often mentioned as he who takes away the soul of the departed, riding his buffalo, Yama is much more than a dark deity of death. Since the Vedic period, when he was the first human to die and become the Lord of the Dead, Yama is a powerful god worshiped as a protector of people and ruler of Mrityuloka (the earth, realm of Mrityu or death).
Yamuna, the sacred river goddess of Hinduism, is deeply revered for her divine connection with Krishna, purifying waters, and spiritual significance. From ancient Vedic mentions to her role in Bhakti traditions like Pushti Maarga, Yamuna is honored as a sister, consort, and mother figure. Her dark waters symbolize love, grace, and protection—especially during festivals like Bhai Dooj. Worshipped in temples, art, and ritual, Yamuna embodies devotion, divine feminine energy, and timeless spiritual power.
The beauty of the earth bathed certainly caught the attention of the early Indian artists and writers. From the poetry that inspired Saawan’s depiction in Baramasa paintings to the art of Ragamala where the rainy-season melody of Raga Megha is beautifully painted, from the rain-drenched lanes of Vrindavan where Radha-Krishna perform their Lilas to the fearlessness of Abhisarika Nayika, young heroine who walks through the dark forest during a rain storm in night, every corner of Indian art world is enriched with refreshing touch of rain. So pick up your cup of tea and coffee and come with us on an exploration of rain in Indian paintings.
“nothing is more real than a line, a color, a surface.” Said Dutch artist Theo van Doesburg. He and several other artists around the world as associated with what we call the “Abstract art movement”. A modern art trend, Abstract art is focused on simplification rather than realistic representation of the world. Style, and not subject is the focal point of an abstract art.
It represents the spirit of modern times when the artist was freed from the demands of patrons and elites. With the coming of photography, painting was no longer responsible for being true to reality, being a medium of capturing the real world.
This technological change was accompanied by social and political transformations- with the World War ending and the long-established institutions giving way to a whole new world, people experienced anxiety, uncertainty, hope, and a vast array of strong emotions, each of which was then expressed in the brush strokes of Abstract artists.
When we look at the sky, we see the Sun, the Moon, and the stars, and appreciate their heavenly beauty. For the ancient Indian sages, however, the sky was abode to the great planets, the Graha, nine to be precise.
These are Surya, Chandra, Mangala, Budha, Guru, Shukra, Shani, Rahu and Ketu. Our learned ancestors discovered that the position of the planets at the time of a person’s birth determined their Kundali or birth chart, Raashi or birth-sign, and Raashi-phal or horoscope.
These nine planets, while residing far away, were found to have a direct impact on the life events of a person. From this knowledge emerged the tradition of Jyotisha (astrology), in which the Navagraha, the nine planets worshiped as deities, became revered figures.
He is the master or Guru of the Asuras, thus known as Daityaguru. He is also considered a bestower of beauty, luxury, and royalty and he is an expert on the matters of statecraft and administration. He is Shukra, the Lord of the Planet Venus.
Shukra literally means “brilliant” or “clear”, referring to his association with the color white and the beautiful white diamond. And brilliant he is. A master of Neeti and the knower of Mrita-Sanjeevani, the art of bringing the dead back to life, Shukra is probably one of the most powerful and enigmatic members of the Navagraha.
One of the most interesting legends from the treasures of Hindu literature is the story of Mohini, Vishnu’s form as a divine female, whose beauty is unparalleled. From the dramatic episode of Samudra-Manthana (churning of the ocean by gods and demons) to the bewildering scene of Bhasmasura’s defeat by her charms, Mohini is a popular presence in Indian religion and folklore.
The embodiment of “Moha '' (allure, the divine mirage) that enchants every being, Mohini is the representation of Vishnu’s subtle and ever-present powers that run the Universe.
Rahu and Ketu, known as the shadow planets in Hindu culture, have deep roots in myth and astrology. Born from a single Asura, they influence eclipses and symbolize the karmic balance between material desire (Rahu) and spiritual detachment (Ketu). This guide respectfully explores their fascinating origin, unique forms, and impact on life. Discover the myth, symbolism, and astrological meaning of Rahu and Ketu. Learn how these shadow planets influence eclipses, karma, and spiritual growth.
Tulsidas could not have been more right when he wrote these lines. Centuries after him, when A.K. Ramanujan, a scholar of Sanskrit and Indian culture, began his quest for Ramayana across India and the world, the sheer number and retellings that he witnessed were awe-inspiring.
As an ode to the many Ramayanas that he got to know about, and for the many more that existed, hidden in their locales, Ramanujan wrote “Three Hundred Ramayanas”, a work popular world over for its exploration of the many Ramayanas.
What the philosophy of Tulsidas and the scholarly journey of Ramanujan have in common is how they underline the awesome number of Rama stories. The central character of Sri Rama is the same in all these tales.
Mangala, the planet Mars in Indian culture, symbolizes courage, strength, and warrior energy. Revered in Jyotisha and Hindu mythology, he is associated with both Shiva and Vishnu, and regarded as the son of Earth (Bhauma). Worship of Mangala on Tuesday, through mantras, Yantras, and rituals, enhances resilience, leadership, and focus, while mitigating anger and stubbornness. Understanding Mangala’s influence helps devotees balance energy, channel determination, and achieve virtuous success in life.
“Yoga is a lifestyle”. This sentence has become the simplest definition and expression of what Yoga is. From the villages of India to the sprawling modern spaces of Europe and America, Yog or Yoga is one of the most popular practices that transcend the boundaries of culture and geography.
Yet, beyond the aforementioned line, not much is actually known about Yoga, its practice, and its philosophy in the popular sphere. Then how can we know what exactly is Yoga?
Thankfully, the solution to this conundrum was formulated centuries ago. In ancient India, a Maharishi (great sage) by the name of Patanjali compiled the philosophy of Yoga in “sutras”, literally “threads”, or short formulations in Sanskrit, which contain the oceanic knowledge of Yoga.
Guru (the great or heavy one) or Brihaspati are the names of the teacher of Gods, a position given to Jupiter in Indian culture. A prime and powerful member of the Navagraha Mandala, Brihaspati rules the spheres of wisdom and knowledge and is one of the few Graha (planets) that are mostly auspicious for a person.
It is said that even when an individual has a weak Brihaspati in their Kundali or birth chart, the grand planet (due to its massive size), with a big heart, tries its best to bestow them with positive or neutral results. A planet that guides one as a patient and magnanimous master, Guru or Brihaspati is royalty among the Nine Planets. Let us know a few interesting things about this great planet-
Born out of the romance of Chandra, the Hindu Moon-God, and Tara, the wife of Jupiter, Budha, the planet Mercury has one of the most interesting tales among the Navagraha or Nine planet cluster. In Hindu astrology, also known as Jyotisha Vidya, Budha is the ruler of intellect, who bestows intelligence and wisdom and guides a person towards good or bad decisions. The controller of Budhi or mental faculties, Budha is a powerful planetary deity in Hinduism, worshipped to gain stability and strength of mind.
Chandra Dev, known as Soma or Rajnipati, is the Hindu Moon God and a key Navagraha deity. Worshiped for his powers over the mind, emotions, and healing, Chandra features in Vedic texts, astrology, and legends like his love for Tara, birth of Budha (Mercury), and interactions with gods like Shiva and Ganesha. His waxing and waning explain lunar phases, and his symbolism appears in goddess iconography, Jyotisha, and rituals across India, highlighting his enduring spiritual and cultural significance.
The son of Rishi Kashyap and Aditi, Agni earlier was only meant to consume sacred, ritual offerings, poured in the Kunda or altar and bring it to the gods. He was born to be the mediator between the world of humans and the heavens.
On one of the days, Agni saw the wives of the Saptarishi, or seven sages, who were very beautiful and was attracted to them. However, he could not approach them because it would have been immoral to propose marriage to the already married women. A witness to all this was Swaha, the daughter of Prajapati Daksha, who was in love with Agni, who seemed to be smitten by other women. Not losing heart, Swaha wittily transformed herself into the wives of the Saptarishis and reached Agni with her loving proposal.
Receiving the fruits of one’s acts in the afterlife is one thing, but there is one Hindu god who keeps a keen, unwavering eye on all our actions, and accordingly with the firmness of a judge, gives good or bad results of our Karma during our lifetimes. He is Shani, Shanishchara (one who chara or walks shaneh or slowly), Saturn, the son of Bhagwan Surya, and one of the Navagraha or nine planets.
This year Shani Jayanti or the birth anniversary of Lord Shani is to be celebrated on 6th June 2024, in different parts of India, where temples of the planet god are situated. Let us get to know a few things about Lord Shani, a powerful, popular but misunderstood divinity in Hindu culture.
Upon entering the brass factory in Aligarh, I found a structure that was in no way fitting my definition of a “factory”. With an uneven mud floor, a makeshift roof supported by steel pillars, walls painted with a thick layer of soot and dust on which hang the bags and clothes of the artists, and a portable stove on which the Kaarigars (craftsmens) were making their tea, the space looked more like a hastily developed village than a factory.
As Navaratri arrives, every devotee observing the nine nights of the goddess begins preparing to welcome and worship Durga and her various forms. From brass, copper, bronze, stone, and wood statues to paintings of the great goddess in her different aspects, Navaratri highlights the ways in which Hindu culture remembers and celebrates Devi. Going back to the ancient period, when the divinity of the goddess was represented through powerful symbols and simple iconography, Indian art has a plethora of ways in which Devi is commemorated. Looking at a few gems from Indian paintings, this article memorializes how Indian art traditions honor Hindu goddesses.
Durga literally translates to “she who is difficult to attain”, however, one of her dhyana-mantra worshiped her as “Durgati-Nashini” or “she who ends evil or misfortune”. Simply put, goddess Durga is the ultimate deity, the beginning, sustenance, and end of creation. She is Srishti (creation), Maya (the visual and experienced world around), and Kali (the annihilator). In all the sects and traditions of the country, her presence is felt in one form or the other.
Sweets and savory dishes on plates, bowls of colors, Gulal in the air, people singing Phaag (folk songs celebrating Phagun or the month of Holi), fervor, and joy all around- the arrival of Holi is a time when everyone welcomes energy, newness, and life with open arms. In the states of India, people have different ways of celebrating the festival with their loved ones. This ancient festival of colors seems to be one of the most important occasions for the people of India till modern times. In this blog, we will relish the vibrancy of Holi through the colors of Indian painting. With each brushstroke and eye-catching color filling the canvas with eternal colors, these paintings perfectly capture the essence of Holi for India and its people.
In the Satikhanda of Rudrasamhita of Shiva Purana, the conversation between Kamadeva and Lord Brahma is described. The lord of love asks the creator, for a powerful companion and weapons, for his task of bringing Shiva out of his meditative state.
As Brahma draws a deep breath, a young man, ornamented with garlands of flowers is born, brimming with beauty, and complete with all auspicious features. He was Vasant. The dark-skinned Vasant brought with him a bloom of nature- causing flowers to blossom and birds to sing, which transformed the ambiance into a heavenly one.
Seeing this, Brahma was pleased and introduced the divine man to Kamadeva as his friend. Vasant from the moment of his birth was to accompany Kamadeva, empowering and amplifying his effects on all beings. By quickly transforming the state of space, Vasant has the power to cause romance, love, affection, and bliss, making it a welcome presence in the culture of India.
Maha Shivaratri- “the extraordinary or great night of Shiva” in Hindu tradition and Shaiva devotion is one of the most powerful occasions for celebrating the auspicious and eternal Shiva. Falling in the month of February-March, Maha Shivaratri commemorates the divine union of Shiva and Shakti by the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, but many also celebrate the occasion as a victory of Shiva over the forces of Tripuri in his Tripurantaka form.
In Kashmir Shaivism, where Tantra reigns supreme, devotees observe the Hara-Ratri or night of Hara (Shiva) and Bhairavotsava- the union of Bhairava and Bhairavi, potent and Tantric forms of Shiva and Parvati. For others, Maha Shivaratri is the night when Shiva performs his legendary Tandava. As we eagerly look forward to this celebration of Shiva and Shiva-tattva (the essence of Shiva), let us revisit a few divine tales of Shiva from the Puranas and devotional traditions of the country and be mesmerized by the otherworldly yet easily pleased primordial one.
From the earliest artistic depictions of Bharhut, Sanchi, Amaravati, Nagajunkonda, and the marvelous statues of Gandhara and Mathura, Buddhist art has translated the wisdom of the Buddha into stone and metal. Condensing his immeasurable virtues and venerable life in art, sculptures of the Buddha offer a chance to the followers of Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, to witness the aura of the Enlightened One, and be guarded by his light to the supreme brilliance of Bodhi.
Rajput paintings, from different sub-schools, depict the scenes of Radha and Krishna in the forests or gardens of Vrindavana, where Radha appears in the garments of Krishna as the blue-skinned Krishna veils his face with the chunri of Radha. Some of the inscriptions that accompany classic Ragamala paintings identify Ragini Bhairavi as a maiden (unmarried young woman), who is enamored by the aura of Bhairava, and with a single-minded devotional love, prays to Shiva, for receiving the hand of Bhairava in marriage. Seeing these artworks transports the audience into the romantic world of the subjects- a realm away from the narrowness of the world, where all expressions of Prema, Sringaar, and Kama have found an eternal, aesthetic haven.
I drank with my eyes the beauty of this glamorous woman who stood near Bihari Lal in ecstasy”. These lines are from the poem of Nagari Das aka Maharaja Savant Singh of Kishangarh, the poet-prince who is associated with the conception and origin of one of the most popular and unparalleled figures in Indian art- Bani-Thani or the “bedecked woman”. Emerging as the “Monalisa of Indian Art”, Bani-Thani is the representative of the luxurious and expressive art of Rajput school and a gem in the crown of Kishangarh paintings.
PM Modi’s choice of a Kani shawl for welcoming Rama Lala highlights the timeless elegance of Kashmir’s weaving heritage. Originating from Kanihama village, Kani shawls are handwoven with intricate floral patterns that date back to the Mughal era. Worn by royals across India and Europe, these shawls symbolize devotion, artistry, and luxury making them a perfect blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Discover the royal history of Kashmir’s Kani shawl, PM Modi’s pick for Rama Lala’s welcome. Explore its Mughal roots, artistry, and enduring global legacy.
Kutch Shawls are traditional handwoven textiles from Gujarat’s Bhujodi region, crafted by the Vankar community using the extra-weft weaving technique. Made from natural wool or cotton and dyed with eco-friendly pigments, they carry 600 years of cultural symbolism. Recognized under the “Kachchh Shawl” GI tag, they reflect India’s living textile heritage and sustainable fashion values.
Pattachitra in its layout draws from the idea of time in Hinduism, which flows eternally, in episodes that are interconnected, forming a garland of celestial events, where each bead is a Lila or divine play of the supreme god. In this Pattachitra, the episodes of Krishna Lila are laid out beautifully, starting (from the top left corner) from Vaikuntha, where Vishnu lies on his Adi Shesha, being attended by Sri Lakshmi. On the lotus emerging from his navel, Lord Brahma is enthroned. From here, the tale of Krishna goes to the human realm (moving in a clockwise direction).
As winter air gets chillier and the sky gets grey, our eyes reach the sky, looking for the shining heavenly body- Surya or Sun, which has been a source of light, life, hope, and strength for civilizations, for centuries. Little do we know, that ages, Yugas apart from today, standing on the brink of war with Ravana, Sri Rama too reached out to the powers of Suryadeva (Sun god), at sage Agastya’s advice, to instill in him, divine prowess, confidence, and victory. Bowing down to the most illustrious Sun, Agastya with Rama created the “Aditya Hridaya Stotra”- “the Heart of the Sun” hymn (that which infuses the heart with the powers of the Sun), a hymn chanted by Hindus to gain worldly and spiritual benefits, which like the light of the Sun, never end.
With a followership that comprises commoners and some of the richest and most influential people of our times, Sri Tirupati Balaji as a powerful and ever-present form of Vishnu in Kaliyuga has gained popularity across the globe. For his devotees, the Sri Kshetra (auspicious region) of Tirumala is “Kaliyuga Vaikuntha” (the abode of Vishnu in Kaliyuga) and Tirupati Balaji is “Kaliyuga Varada” (he who bestows boons in Kaliyuga). The mighty Balaji is “Sat-chit-ananda” – the bliss of supreme, pure consciousness and the essence of devotion and divinity. Let us immerse ourselves in the glory of the Lord of Tirumala, and go on a virtual journey of this sacred land of Vishnu on earth.
In the pages of Rig Veda, Rudra emerges as a potent and supreme deity, who controls the balance of the universe. He is Vastospati- the protector of Vastu or the sacred order of Srishti. He is Pashupati, who controls the frantic soul in the forest of the world. In the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, it is Rudra, who is being evoked for the powers that he holds over death and time. Rudra of Rigveda merges with Shiva in the Puranas, becoming an aspect of the Lord, when he is angered and takes up the task of protection of good and destruction of negative forces.
What is ISKCON, and why has the Hare Krishna Movement inspired millions around the world? From vibrant temples to devotional chants of ‘Hare Krishna,’ ISKCON has created a global community devoted to Krishna-bhakti. But how did this modern Vaishnava movement begin, and what are its core teachings?
“Ik Omkar Satnaam”- Om, the sacred word, is the only true (sat) name (naam), of the supreme divine- the beginning of the Mul Mantara (first, root chant) of Sikhism carries within itself the highest degree of spiritual knowledge. The divine being as one and formless, which is the root of Nirguna Bhakti (formless devotion) is encapsulated in the beliefs of Sikhism and its pious text, Guru Granth Sahib. Devotion to Guru acts of service as acts of devotion and valor coursing through the veins of its members- Sikhism is one of the most popular and widespread religions in the modern world. And all its virtues owe their origin to the heavenly persona of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, whose descent is celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion as “Guru Parb” every year, in the days that follow the festivities of Deepawali.
Kartik, beginning in October and ending in November, has been hailed in Hindu tradition and scriptures as the month of the divine. From the first-revered Ganesha, the goddess of wealth Lakshmi, to Vishnu, Shiva, Krishna, Tulsi, and even one of Mahabharata’s heroes Bhishma are evoked and celebrated in Kartik Maah. The best of Kartik’s festivities in India can be experienced in the home of Shiva, Kashi, where a five-day festival known as “Dev Deepawali” or the Deepawali of the Gods is celebrated with enthusiasm unseen anywhere else.
Mist in the air, a thousand diyas lit, laughter all around, firecrackers and mouth watering sweets adding to the spirit of festivities, Diwali for Indians is THE festival! With families, states and the entire nation coming together, it seems that the week-long joys of Deepawali can not get any better. But there is one thing which is sure to add to the cheeriness of the occasion. Gifts!
Navaratri celebrates the nine divine forms of the goddess Shakti, worshipped for their power to protect, nurture, and transform life. Across nine nights, devotees revere Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and other aspects of the Mother through prayer, fasting, and rituals. As described in scriptures like the Devi Mahatmyam, honoring these forms awakens inner strength and devotion. The nine goddesses together represent the eternal Adishakti, the cosmic mother of creation and liberation. What are the 9 forms of Devi in Navaratri? Learn their names, meaning, and blessings in this guide to goddess worship and spiritual significance.
